Best Shark Upright Vacuums

Welcome to Vacuum Wars’ definitive guide to choosing the best Shark upright vacuums! Our selections are based on our own in-depth, independent and non-sponsored evaluations, focusing on cleaning performance, innovative features like Powered Lift-Away and DuoClean technology, and solutions for pet hair and allergy management.

Our recommendations are updated regularly to reflect the latest evaluation results and industry insights, helping you find the perfect Shark upright vacuum to meet your cleaning needs and budget.

Products that have been discontinued, or are frequently out of stock are removed from the rankings.

How to Choose a Shark Upright Vacuum

When selecting a Shark upright vacuum, understanding the range of features across their lineup can help you make an informed decision. Shark’s upright vacuums offer a combination of power, maneuverability, and innovation, with models catering to different needs such as deep carpet cleaning, hard floor care, or tackling pet hair. In this guide, we’ll explore key factors to consider when choosing the right Shark upright for your home.

Prioritize Cleaning Power and Floor Compatibility

Many Shark uprights incorporate advanced cleaning heads designed to perform well across different surfaces. Shark’s DuoClean technology, which features both a soft roller and a traditional brush, excels on hard floors while seamlessly transitioning to carpets. This versatility ensures that the vacuum can pick up fine dust, larger debris, and hair with ease, without needing to swap floorheads between surfaces.

If deep carpet cleaning is a priority, look for a model with high suction and robust airflow—two areas where Shark has consistently performed well in testing. Having strong suction power is also advantageous for above-floor cleaning tasks when using attachments, though it is less critical for hard flooring.

Read more about How Vacuum Wars Tests Upright Vacuums!

Evaluate the Weight and Ease of Use

Weight is one of the most crucial factors to consider with upright vacuums. Shark uprights vary from around 12 to 17 pounds, with lighter models being easier to maneuver. However, lighter vacuums may come with smaller motors, trading off some power.

For those who prioritize maneuverability, Shark’s Powered Lift-Away feature offers a significant advantage. This system allows the canister to detach while keeping the brush roll powered, making it easier to clean under furniture or reach tight spaces. Not all Lift-Away models are powered, so it’s worth verifying whether the feature is available if you plan to use the vacuum for more than just floor cleaning.

Look for Specialized Hair Management Features

Managing pet or human hair is often a key consideration when choosing a vacuum. Many newer Shark models are equipped with anti-hair wrap systems, which reduce the likelihood of hair tangling around the brush roll. These technologies perform significantly better than traditional brush rolls, making them ideal for homes with pets or individuals with long hair.

Pay Attention to Dust Bin Capacity and Maintenance

All Shark upright vacuums feature dust bins that open from both ends, making them easy to empty and clean. While the bin sizes may vary slightly, Shark’s upright models generally offer better-than-average capacity. This is a helpful feature, particularly if you have a larger home that requires frequent cleaning sessions.

Assess Additional Features: LED Lights, Cord Length, and Attachments

Some Shark uprights come with LED headlights on the floorhead, which illuminate hard-to-see dirt, ensuring a more thorough clean. Though this may seem like a small feature, it enhances cleaning accuracy and efficiency.

Cord length can also affect the usability of an upright vacuum. Models with 30-foot cords provide greater reach compared to the standard 25-foot cords, reducing the need to switch outlets frequently.

When it comes to attachments, Shark offers both standard and premium toolsets. Premium sets typically include powered mini-brushes or specialized tools, which can be beneficial for pet owners or those with specific cleaning needs.

HEPA Filtration and Sealed Systems

All Shark uprights feature HEPA filtration with sealed systems, providing exceptional air filtration that traps allergens and dust inside the vacuum. This is especially important for allergy sufferers, as a well-sealed system prevents fine particles from escaping into the air. While not all vacuums on the market offer this level of filtration, Shark makes it a standard feature across their upright lineup.

Balancing Price with Features

When selecting a Shark upright, balancing performance with price is essential. While higher-end models offer advanced features like Powered Lift-Away and anti-hair wrap systems, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver solid performance. Models with fewer bells and whistles may be lighter and easier to handle, making them a good choice for smaller spaces or homes with minimal carpet.

Final Thoughts

Shark offers some of the most well-rounded upright vacuums available, combining advanced features with reliable performance across different price points. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight model for quick clean-ups, a heavy-duty vacuum for deep carpets, or one equipped to handle pet hair, Shark’s lineup has something for everyone.

By focusing on your specific needs—whether it’s suction power, anti-hair wrap technology, or portability—you can find the Shark upright that fits your cleaning routine and makes maintaining your home more efficient.